Wednesday, November 11th, 2020, eight St. Joe athletes signed letters of intent to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level, three of which were for the University of Notre Dame.  The athletes in the class of 2021 are very talented and the St. Joe community looks forward to watching them succeed at the next level.

Mary Catherine Pruitt signed her letter of intent to swim at the University of Notre Dame.  Since she was a little girl, it has always been her dream to compete at one of the most prestigious universities in the country that happens to be in her own backyard.  She has always thought of Notre Dame as home.  Going to football games throughout her childhood and competing on her travel team, Irish Aquatics, whose practices were held at the University gave her lots of time on the beautiful campus.  She said, “No University compares to Notre Dame.  It is such a special place to me and I am excited and honored to further my academic and athletic career there.”  MaryCate has invested countless hours into the sport that she loves and has found it to be extremely rewarding.  Pruitt won back-to-back state championships in the 500 freestyle at the IHSAA State finals in 2018 and 2019.  She looks forward to bringing positive energy and competitive swimming to Notre Dame. 

In addition to Pruitt, 6’7” guard, Douglas Konieczny, will also be attending the University of Notre Dame next year to play basketball for head coach Mike Brey.  He committed in August of 2019 and is excited to keep playing ball close to home.  He gave a special shoutout to his older sister, who couldn’t be at the signing ceremony but has been by his side throughout his entire basketball career.  Konieczny stated he is, “Willing and open to play wherever they need me.  Whatever they ask, I’m willing to do.”  Konieczny is looking forward to his senior season at St. Joe, and excited about the team’s potential this coming winter.  

Katherine Bellia is the third St. Joe senior who had the University of Notre Dame on her signing letter.  She will further her academic and tennis career at the University next year.  When asked about Kate, her high school coach stated, “Kate is always positive.  Even after suffering an injury, you would never know because she never has a bad day.”  Kate is so excited to be part of such a special program.  When asked about her commitment, Bellia said, “I love the team and am super excited to be able to contribute to a great program.  The work ethic of the program is phenomenal and the girls on the team are all super nice.”  

All three athletes look forward to continuing their sport at the University of Notre Dame.  They have been blessed with this opportunity, and are supported by the Saint Joe community.